Memory quilt and method of assembling same

ABSTRACT

A memory quilt and method for assembling the same are provided. The method includes forming a first layer including a first signature panel, and providing a marking implement configured to confer a permanent mark on the first signature panel. The method also includes forming a retainer including a first loop and a second loop, each coupled to the first signature panel, wherein the first loop is sized to retain the marking implement therein, and wherein the second loop is sized to extend around and retain the memory quilt therein.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/038,581 filed Aug. 18, 2014, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

The field of the present disclosure relates generally to memory quilts and, more particularly, to methods of assembling a memory quilt for use in providing a greeting to a recipient.

Sadly, at some point, every person may have a friend or loved one become ill. It can be difficult to find ways to express condolences, well wishes, or other messages of strength, sympathy, or care to the ill person. Traditional greeting cards, although they may express a desired message and are easy to find or to construct, may provide only limited condolences as they generally only remain on a shelf or a bedside table for a short period of time, and may be discarded or stored out of view. Other gift options may include flowers or plants, which eventually will wilt or die and be discarded, and/or stuffed animals, which may only be appropriate for people of a certain age. The limitations associated with greeting cards and other available gift options are also present in many other situations in which cards and gifts are exchanged, including, without limitation, graduations, birthdays, and/or baby showers.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

In one aspect, a method for assembling a memory quilt is provided. The method includes forming a first layer including a first signature panel, and providing a marking implement configured to confer a permanent mark on the first signature panel. The method also includes forming a retainer including a first loop and a second loop, each coupled to the first signature panel. The first loop is sized to retain the marking implement therein, and the second loop is sized to extend around and retain the memory quilt therein.

In another aspect, a memory quilt for providing greetings is described. The memory quilt includes a first signature panel, a marking implement configured to confer a permanent mark on the first signature panel, and a retainer. The retainer includes a first retaining portion sized to retain the marking implement therein and a second retaining portion sized to extend around and retain the memory quilt therein.

Various refinements exist of the features noted in relation to the above-mentioned aspects. Further features may also be incorporated in the above-mentioned aspects as well. These refinements and additional features may exist individually or in any combination. For instance, various features discussed below in relation to any of the illustrated embodiments may be incorporated into any of the above-described aspects, alone or in any combination.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1-7 illustrate exemplary embodiments of the methods and apparatus described herein.

FIG. 1 is a top plan view of an exemplary first layer that may be used in forming a memory quilt.

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of exemplary layers of an assembled memory quilt, including the first layer shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is an exemplary top plan view of the memory quilt shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of the memory quilt shown in FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is a top plan view of an exemplary retainer that may be used with the memory quilt shown in FIG. 3.

FIGS. 6A and 6B are cross-sectional views of the retainer shown in FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of an exemplary method that may be implemented to provide greetings to a recipient using the memory quilt shown in FIG. 3.

Corresponding reference characters are used to indicate corresponding parts throughout the figures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following detailed description illustrates the disclosure by way of example, and not by way of limitation. The description enables one skilled in the art to make and use the disclosure, describes several embodiments, adaptations, variations, alternatives, and uses of the disclosure, including what is presently believed to be the best mode of carrying out the disclosure.

The apparatus and method described herein are directed to providing greetings, e.g., messages of condolence, well wishes, and/or similar expressions, to a friend or to a loved one, while providing a useful benefit to the friend or loved one, i.e., the recipient. By conveying these greetings in the form of annotations or marks (e.g., greetings, signatures, etc.) on a blanket or a memory quilt, not only will the recipient have a lasting gift that can be useful indefinitely, but such a gift will also enable a greater number of people to provide such expressions at the same time and in the same method. Furthermore, a single memory quilt that includes multiple signatures, greetings, sketches, and/or other conveyances can replace the use of multiple traditional greeting cards.

Referring to the drawings, FIG. 1 is an exemplary top plan view of a first layer 10 that may be used in forming a memory quilt 100 (shown in FIG. 3). In the exemplary embodiment, first layer 10 is a fabric material. In one embodiment, first layer 10 may be fabricated from 100% cotton fabric, and as such, is soft and comfortable to the touch. In other embodiments, first layer 10 may be fabricated from any other suitable fabric that enables first layer 10 to function as described herein, such as, for example, a cotton-blend fabric. First layer 10 has a first or exterior surface 12 and an opposing second or interior surface 14. Further, first layer 10 defines a leading edge 16 and an opposing trailing edge 18. In one embodiment, first layer 10 includes and/or is formed from a plurality of fabric panels 11 spaced between leading edge 16 and trailing edge 18.

The plurality of fabric panels 11 include, from leading edge 16 to trailing edge 18, a first end panel 20, a first signature panel 24, and a second end panel 28 coupled together serially along first and second seams 22 and 26, respectively. In the exemplary embodiment, first and second seams 22 and 26 are substantially parallel. More specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, first end panel 20 is coupled to first signature panel 24 along first seam 22, and first signature panel 24 is coupled to second end panel 28 along second seam 26.

In the exemplary embodiment, first end panel 20 has a first length L₁ measured between leading edge 16 and first seam 22, and second end panel 28 has second length L₂ measured between second seam 26 and trailing edge 18. In the exemplary embodiment, first and second lengths L₁ and L₂ are approximately equal, such that first end panel 20 and second end panel 28 are substantially congruent. In one embodiment, lengths L₁ and L₂ are about 9″. First signature panel 24 has a third length L₃ measured between first seam 22 and second seam 26 that, in the exemplary embodiment, is longer than L₁ and L₂. In the exemplary embodiment, length L₃ is about 44″. It should be understood that lengths L₁ and L₂ may be any length to enable memory quilt 100 to be sized differently. In the exemplary embodiment, first end panel 20, first signature panel 24, and second end panel 28 each have a first width W₁. In one embodiment, width W₁ is about 38″.

In the exemplary embodiment, first signature panel 24 is fabricated from a fabric that enables indicia created thereon, as described in more detail below, to be easily viewed and/or read by a recipient of memory quilt 100. It should be understood that in other embodiments, first and second end panels 20 and 28, first signature panel 24, and/or first layer 10 may each have any suitable size, shape, appearance, and/or configuration that enables first layer 10 and/or memory quilt 100 to function as described herein. For example, in one embodiment, first layer 10 may not include second end panel 28 (i.e., may only include two panels such that first end panel 20 extends between leading edge 16 and first seam 22, and first signature panel 24 extends from first seam 22 to trailing edge 18).

In one embodiment, first seam 22 and/or second seam 26 include a seam defined between adjacent panels (panels 20 and 24, and panels 24 and 28, respectively). In other embodiments, first seam 22 and/or second seam 26 may additionally, or in the alternative, include other couplings or attachment implements, including, for example, but not limited to, hook-and-loop fasteners, snaps, buttons, zippers, adhesive, latches, elastics, and/or other suitable fasteners. In the exemplary embodiment, at least one of first seam 22 and/or second seam 26 includes an unstitched portion 30. Unstitched portion 30 is defined by at least a portion of first seam 22 and/or second seam 26 and defines a length L₄ along which first signature panel 24 is uncoupled from a corresponding first end panel 20 and/or second end panel 28, i.e., unstitched portion 30 is “open.” It should be understood that, in embodiments in which first seam 22 and/or second seam 26 include coupling implements other than stitches, “unstitched portion” 30 may be referred to as “uncoupled portion” 30 without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Unstitched portion 30 extends along first seam 22 and/or second seam 26 at a location that is spaced a distance from either a first side edge 32 or an opposing second side edge 34 of first layer 10, such that first seam 22 and second seam 26 extend from first side edge 32 to second side edge 34. In the exemplary embodiment, unstitched portion 30 is about 4.5″ from first side edge 32 and/or second side edge 34 and has length L₄ of about 2″. In other embodiments, unstitched portion 30 may be positioned in any location and/or may have any other length L₄ that enables unstitched portion 30 to function as described herein.

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of a plurality of layers 40 used in fabricating memory quilt 100 (shown in FIG. 3.). In the exemplary embodiment, layers 40 include first layer 10, a batting layer 42, and a second layer 50. In the exemplary embodiment, batting layer 42 is fabricated from batting material, such as, but not limited to, cotton, polyester, wool, bamboo fibers, and/or a combination thereof. Batting layer 42 has dimensions similar to those of first layer 10, to enable batting layer 42 to be positioned between first layer 10 and second layer 50 when memory quilt 100 is assembled. It should be understood that batting layer 42 may have alternate dimensions (e.g., slightly less than those of first layer 10), and/or that there may be one or more batting layers 42 (e.g., at least two battings layers 42 to provide a thicker or “fluffier” memory quilt 100) positioned between first and second layers 10 and 50.

In addition, in the exemplary embodiment, second layer 50 has a first or exterior surface 52 and a second or interior surface 54. In the exemplary embodiment, second layer 50 is substantially similar to first layer 10. More specifically, second layer 50 includes a third end panel 60 that is sized approximately the same as first end panel 20 (shown in FIG. 1), a second signature panel 64 that is sized approximately the same as first signature panel 24 (shown in FIG. 1), and a fourth end panel 68 that is sized approximately the same as second end panel 28 (shown in FIG. 1). Third end panel 60 is coupled to second signature panel 64 along a third seam 62 that is similar to first seam 22 shown in FIG. 1), and second signature panel 64 is coupled to fourth end panel 68 along a fourth seam 66 that is similar to second seam 26 (shown in FIG. 1). It should be understood that second layer 50 may have any other size, shape, appearance and/or configuration that enables second layer 50 and/or memory quilt 100 to function as described herein. In the exemplary embodiment, neither third seam 62 nor fourth seam 66 include an unstitched portion 30 (shown in FIG. 1). In other words, each of third seam 62 and fourth seam 66 are “complete” between a first side edge 72 and an opposing second side edge 74 of second layer 50. However, in other embodiments, at least one of third seam 62 and/or fourth seam 66 may include at least one unstitched portion 30.

FIG. 3 is a top plan view of an exemplary memory quilt 100 formed from layers 40 (shown in FIG. 2), and FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of memory quilt 100. More specifically, in order to assemble memory quilt 100, each batting layer 42 (shown in FIG. 2) is positioned between first and second layers 10 and 50 (shown in FIG. 2). More specifically, batting layer 42 is positioned between interior surface 14 (shown in FIG. 1) of first layer 10 and interior surface 54 (shown in FIG. 2) of second layer 50. When properly positioned, first and second side edge 32 and 34 (shown in FIG. 1) of first layer 10 are substantially aligned with first and second side edges 72 and 74 (shown in FIG. 2), respectively, of second layer 50, such that batting layer 42 is completely encased between first and second layers 10 and 50. First layer 10 is securely coupled to second layer 50 such that relative movement between first and second layers 10 and 50 is prevented, thereby forming memory quilt 100. More specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, first layer 10 is coupled to second layer 50 using a plurality of rows of stitches 102. Moreover, in the exemplary embodiment, each row of stitches 102 is substantially straight and extends generally diagonally across memory quilt 100. In one embodiment, a first row 103 of stitches may extend from one corner 108 of first signature panel 24 to an opposite corner 109 of first signature panel 24, and subsequent rows of stitches 102 may be spaced around first row 103. In other embodiments, a first row 103 of stitches may be oriented in any other configuration, and subsequent rows of stitches 102 may be spaced therearound. In the exemplary embodiment, rows of stitches 102 are substantially parallel to and evenly spaced across memory quilt 100. In one embodiment, rows of stitches 102 are spaced about 1″ from each other. It should be understood that rows of stitches 102 may have a different arrangement and/or orientation relative to and/or across memory quilt 100 that enables memory quilt 100 to function as described herein (e.g., rows of stitches 102 may not be parallel, may not be evenly spaced, and/or or may be oriented other than diagonally across memory quilt 100).

In the exemplary embodiment, memory quilt 100 also includes an edge binding 104. Edge binding 104 facilitates enhancing the coupling of first layer 10 to second layer 50 to form memory quilt 100 such that a perimeter 106 of memory quilt 100 is “sealed.” In one embodiment, edge binding 104 is fabricated from a fabric material similar to that used in first and/or second layer 10 and 50. In other embodiments, edge binding 104 may be fabricated from a different fabric material and/or a different material (e.g., a woven notion or trim material). Edge binding 104 may additionally or alternatively include other closure implements, such as, but not limited to, snaps, buttons, stitches, adhesive, tape, pins, zippers, hook-and-loop fasteners, and/or other closure implements. In the exemplary embodiment, edge binding 104 includes strips 105 of fabric having a width (not shown) of about 2.5″. Edge binding 104 is folded approximately in half about perimeter 106 of memory quilt 100 and is secured thereto, for example, via stitching.

Memory quilt 100 also includes a retainer 110. In the exemplary embodiment, retainer 110 forms a first retaining portion 112 and a second retaining portion 114. First retaining portion 112 is sized to receive and retain a marking implement 116 therein. Marking implement 116 is used for writing greetings and/or otherwise applying indicia and/or conferring a permanent mark on memory quilt 100. For example, implement 116 may be, but is not limited to, a fabric pen, a fabric marker, fabric paint, and/or any other suitable device used to transfer a permanent indicia on fabric. As used herein, “permanent marks,” and/or indicia, refers generally to marks intended to last for an extended period of time, that are resistant to fading via washing or wear, and/or marks that are not intended to be “washable” or easily removable. In the exemplary embodiment, marking implement 116 includes a fabric pen or fabric marker that does not “bleed” into the fabric of memory quilt 100, that resists fading, and that does not require excess time to dry or set. Second retaining portion 114 is sized to extend about, and retain, memory quilt 100 therein, when memory quilt 100 is in a folded and/or rolled configuration.

Memory quilt 100 may include additional elements, including, for example, a label 140. Label 140 includes indicia that communicate a recipient of memory quilt 100, a manufacturer of memory quilt 100, and/or a seller of memory quilt 100. For example, label 140 may include printed, embroidered, or otherwise marked indicia and/or logo(s) that indicate a name or brand of memory quilt 100, and/or designs and/or ornamentation that attract attention.

FIGS. 5, 6A, and 6B are a respective top plan view and cross-sectional views of retainer 110. In the exemplary embodiment, retainer 110 includes a first end 120, a second end 122, and a body portion 121 extending therebetween. Moreover, retainer 110 includes a first face 124 and an opposing second face 126. To form first retaining portion 112 (also referred to herein as a “first loop” 112), first face 124 of first end 120 is coupled against first face 124 of body portion 121 such that first loop 112 is defined with a circumference sized to receive and retain marking implement 116 snugly therein against memory quilt 100 (shown in FIG. 3).

Second end 122 is coupled against second face 126 of first end 120. More specifically, second face 126 of second end 122 is coupled against second face 126 of first end 120, such that second retaining portion 114 (also referred to herein as a “second loop” 114) is defined with a circumference sized to retain folded and/or rolled memory quilt 100 therein, to facilitate transporting and/or storing memory quilt 100. In other words, a giver and/or a recipient of memory quilt 100 may roll up or fold memory quilt 100 such that second loop 114 extends about memory quilt 100 to facilitate retaining memory quilt 100 in its rolled-up or folded configuration. In another embodiment, first face 124 of second end 122 is coupled against second face 126 of first end 120, such that second loop 114 is formed to oppose first loop 112.

To attach retainer 110 to memory quilt 100, a base 128 of first loop 112 and second loop 114 is inserted into unstitched portion 30 (shown in FIG. 1), and unstitched portion 30 is then closed to “complete” the appropriate seam 22, 26 (shown in FIG. 1), 62, and/or 66 (shown in FIG. 2) in which unstitched portion 30 was defined, such that retainer 110 is bound therein. In the exemplary embodiment, unstitched portion 30 is stitched together and closed. In one embodiment, base 128 may be stitched or otherwise secured before being inserted into unstitched portion 30, to ensure the first and second loops 112 and 114 remain intact.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of an exemplary method 200 of assembling a memory quilt (e.g., memory quilt 100, shown in FIG. 3) that may be used to provide greetings to a recipient of the memory quilt. In the exemplary embodiment, method 200 includes providing 202 a first layer (e.g., first layer 10) including a first signature panel (e.g., first signature panel 24, both shown in FIG. 1). The first layer may be fabricated from a fabric material, and, more specifically, the first signature panel may be fabricated from a solid-color fabric. Method 200 also includes providing 204 a marking implement (e.g., marking implement 116, shown in FIG. 4) configured to confer a permanent mark on the first signature panel, wherein the permanent mark is associated with a greeting (e.g., a greeting for the recipient of the memory quilt). Method 200 further includes providing 206 a retainer (e.g., retainer 110, shown in FIG. 3) including a first loop and a second loop (e.g., first and second loops 112 and 114, shown in FIG. 4) coupled to the first signature panel. In the exemplary embodiment, the first loop is sized to retain the marking implement therein, and the second loop is sized to retain the memory quilt therein. Method 200 also includes coupling 208 the retainer to the first layer. In some embodiments, coupling 208 includes inserting a base of the retainer (e.g., base 128, shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B) into an unstitched portion (e.g., unstitches portion 30, shown in FIG. 1) of a first seam (e.g., first seam 22, shown in FIG. 1) adjacent to the first signature panel, and closing the unstitched portion.

Method 200 may include additional steps, including those described elsewhere herein. For example, method 200 may further include providing indicia (e.g., label 140, shown in FIGS. 3 and 4) on the memory quilt to indicate the recipient and/or a manufacturer of the memory quilt. Method 200 may additionally or alternatively include rolling the memory quilt into a rolled-up configuration, and positioning the second loop around the memory quilt to retain the memory quilt therein. Additionally, or in the alternative, method 200 may include providing a second layer (e.g., second layer 50) and a batting layer (e.g., batting layer 42, both shown in FIG. 2), positioning the batting layer between the first layer and the second layer, and coupling the first layer to the second layer. Method 200 may also include stitching a first row of stitches (e.g., first row 103, shown in FIG. 3) from a first corner of the first signature panel to an opposing second corner of the first signature panel (e.g., first and second corners 108 and 109, shown in FIG. 3), and stitching a plurality of rows of stitches (e.g., rows of stitches 102, also shown in FIG. 3) about the first row of stitches, wherein the plurality of rows of stitches are evenly spaced around the first row of stitches. Method 200 may further include providing an edge binding (e.g., edge binding 104, shown in FIG. 3), and stitching the edge binding about a perimeter of the memory quilt. Additionally, or in the alternative, method 200 may include using the marking implement to confer a permanent mark on the first signature panel.

Using the methods described herein, a memory quilt (e.g., memory quilt 100, shown in FIG. 3) may be assembled and may be used to provide greeting thereon for a recipient of the memory quilt. For example, a person afflicted with a long-term illness or in need of long-term medical care, is selected to receive the memory quilt. Prior to delivery of the memory quilt to the recipient, friends and loved ones of the recipient use one or more of the provided marking implement(s) to mark (e.g., inscribe a message, sketch, sign, or otherwise transfer a plurality of indicia upon) the assembled memory quilt. The marked memory quilt (i.e., the memory quilt including the plurality of indicia) is then provided or delivered to the recipient. In another embodiment, the memory quilt is provided to the recipient and, subsequently, friends and loved ones of the recipient use the provided marking implement to mark the memory quilt. In yet another embodiment, one person or a few people may use the provided marking implement to mark the memory quilt, then the memory quilt is provided to the recipient, and more people may subsequently use the provided marking implement to mark the memory quilt. The memory quilt provides the greetings in a useful and permanent format; not only are the marks provided thereon permanent, but the memory quilt as assembled is constructed to last for a long period of time (e.g., longer than a vase of flowers). Greetings from a plurality of people may be gathered together to be provided collectively, eliminating need for individual greeting cards and/or other individual gifts. The result of the aforementioned embodiments is to fulfill the purpose of the memory quilt and method for assembling the same, i.e., providing greetings to the recipient.

When introducing elements of the present invention or the embodiment(s) thereof, the articles “a”, “an”, “the” and “said” are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms “comprising”, “including” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements.

As various changes could be made in the above constructions and methods without departing from the scope of the invention, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for assembling a memory quilt, said method comprising: forming a first layer including a first signature panel; providing a marking implement configured to confer a permanent mark on the first signature panel; and forming a retainer including a first loop and a second loop, each coupled to the first signature panel, wherein the first loop is sized to retain the marking implement therein, and wherein the second loop is sized to extend around and retain the memory quilt therein.
 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising providing indicia on the memory quilt to indicate at least one of a recipient and a manufacturer of the memory quilt.
 3. The method of claim 1, further comprising: forming the memory quilt into a rolled-up configuration; and positioning the second loop around the memory quilt to retain the memory quilt therein.
 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising: providing a second layer and a batting layer; positioning the batting layer between the first layer and the second layer; and coupling the first layer to the second layer.
 5. The method of claim 4, wherein coupling the first layer to the second layer comprises: stitching a first row of stitches from a first corner of the first signature panel to an opposing second corner of the first signature panel; and stitching a plurality of rows of stitches about the first row of stitches, wherein the plurality of rows of stitches are evenly spaced around the first row of stitches.
 6. The method of claim 4, wherein coupling the first layer to the second layer comprises: providing an edge binding; and stitching the edge binding about a perimeter of the memory quilt.
 7. The method of claim 1, further comprising coupling the retainer to the first layer, wherein coupling the retainer to the first layer comprises: inserting a base of the retainer into an unstitched portion of a first seam adjacent to the first signature panel; and closing the unstitched portion.
 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising using the marking implement to confer a permanent mark on the first signature panel.
 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the first signature panel is fabricated from a solid-color fabric.
 10. A memory quilt for use in providing a greeting to a recipient, said memory quilt comprising: a first signature panel; a marking implement configured to confer a permanent mark on said first signature panel; and a retainer coupled to said first signature panel, said retainer comprising a first retaining portion sized to retain said marking implement therein and a second retaining portion sized to extend around and retain said memory quilt therein.
 11. The memory quilt of claim 10, further comprising a first end panel coupled to the first edge of said signature panel along a first seam, wherein a base of said retainer is inserted into the first seam to couple said retainer to said first signature panel.
 12. The memory quilt of claim 10, wherein said first signature panel is fabricated from a solid-color fabric.
 13. The memory quilt of claim 10, further comprising: a first layer comprising said first signature panel; a second layer; and a batting layer positioned between said first layer and said second layer, wherein a plurality of rows of stitches couple said first layer to said second layer.
 14. The memory quilt of claim 13, further comprising an edge binding coupled around a perimeter of said memory quilt such that said batting layer is encased between said first layer and said second layer.
 15. The memory quilt of claim 10, further comprising: a first layer comprising said first signature panel; and a second layer comprising a second signature panel, wherein said marking implement is further configured to confer a permanent mark on said second signature panel.
 16. The memory quilt of claim 15, wherein said second signature panel is fabricated from a solid-color fabric.
 17. The memory quilt of claim 10, wherein said marking implement comprises one of a fabric pen and fabric marker. 